Sedona: Tlaquepaque
Arts & Crafts Village
Surrounded by magnificent red rock formations and nestled along the banks of Oak Creek, Tlaquepaque is located in Sedona, Arizona. Fashioned after a traditional Mexican village, it is the most distinctive shopping experience to be found in the Southwest. Tasteful galleries and unique shops live in harmony with its lush natural environment where giant sycamore trees stand in testimony to the care taken in preserving the timeless beauty of the Tlaquepaque grounds.
Tlaquepaque’s construction began in 1971 with the creation of a wall along Highway 179 and opened in 1973. Integrated into its environment and true to its architectural sources, Tlaquepaque creates the impression that it has been around for centuries.
Tlaquepaque largely reflects the dream of one man, Abe Miller. Abe’s standards were very high and his control extended from planning and construction though landscaping and maintenance.
Tlaquepaque is center stage to numerous events annually. Whether first time visitors or those that have made a tradition of attending, Tlaquepaque offers a festive atmosphere for all to enjoy. Such events include:
Fiesta del Tlaquepaque: The flower-strewn streets of Tlaquepaque greet visitors during this celebration of Mexican Independence Day. Visitors enjoy music, dancing, food, and open-air artist booths. The Fiesta del Tlaquepaque is held on the 2nd Saturday in September. 1
Named for a picturesque suburb of Guadalajara, Mexico’s Queen City, Tlaquepaque Arts and Craft Village is a compound of Spanish-style buildings. Known as “The Art and Soul of Sedona,” artists and artisans, craftsmen and chefs, feature their one-of-a-kind items for more than one million tourists annually.
To preserve the integrity of the site, buildings were constructed around existing trees. Where possible, methods of construction mirrored those of Mexican artisans and builders; tiles, statuary, lanterns, pots, doors, wrought-iron – even fountains – were largely imported piece by piece from Mexico. The result is a unique blend of architecture and nature, old and new…and an ambience of special charm and quiet elegance.
The Festival of Lights: Six thousand lumiarias are lit in Tlaquepaque’s courtyards and walkways during this December event. Entertainment thoughout the day from musicians, carolers, and dancers add to the holiday spirit. The Festival of Lights is held on the 2nd Saturday in December. 1
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